Global Design Studio of Shilpa Architects

The Global Design Studio of Shilpa Architects Planners Designers was awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum rating for New Construction by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). The LEED Platinum certification is an endorsement of SHILPA's design philosophies, and corporate responsibility goals. The eco-friendly office space includes benefits such as lower operating costs and a reduced carbon footprint.

At a Glance

Project

: Global Design Studio

Location

: Chennai, India

Achitect

: Shilpa Architects Planners Desginers

As one of the first Platinum Rated Design Studios in Asia, Shilpa Architects designed its headquarters as a next generation workplace, bringing to life the organization's commitment to reduce power consumption, open and collaborative work settings, natural lighting and geothermal air-conditioning. "Innovation and sustainability are at the core of Shilpa Architects' culture and what our clients and people expect," said Pavitra Sri Prakash, Design Director and Chief Planner at Shilpa Architects. "I am proud of all that we have achieved to make the studio a collaborative and modern work environment, as it stands to symbolize our approach to sustainable design-thinking around the globe."

The building is split into multiple levels of studio space and a level each for client/vendor interaction and a Gallery. Conference rooms and open spaces are designed for initiatives to educate students, the general community and promote art. The staggering of floors gives the office spatial and visual connectivity. Vertical ducts rise in the "green shafts" through which the conditioned air is circulated into the work and interaction spaces. The building is a single volute with the staggered levels directing the circulating air through the entire building, till it is mechanically vented out at the top of the staircase headroom. The efficiency of the Air Conditioning System is enhanced by the heat recovery wheel. Carbon-di-oxide build up is minimized because most of the air is exhausted back to the ambient. Radiant slab and Geo thermal cooling are incorporated in the HVAC System design to reduce power and water consumption. Solar power generation and use of RO treated ground water for Air Conditioning are special features of the building's engineering.

"A green building is one which uses less water, optimizes energy efficiency, conserves natural resources, generates less waste and provides healthier spaces for occupants, as compared to a conventional building." (www.igbc.in/)

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is a nationally and internationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

Entrance & Reception Lobby

The entrance to the building is marked by a tribute to a Hindu deity, "Vishvakarma", considered to be the divine ARCHITECT! The sculpture is hand crafted specially by artisans from the Bhavani district of Tamil Nadu. In order to add local artisan touch as well, the modern "Mandap" was crafted in Mahabalipuram.

Continuing with the idea of the "Temple of Design", the grand door is inspired by traditional temple paneled door. With antique brass detailing, the door stands a majestic 12 feet in height and has to be opened by each and every visitor in order to experience the feeling of having entered the space.

Upon entry, one steps into the "Akhand" which is inspired by continuity through the same treatment for the floor, ceiling and walls thereby living up to its Sanskrit meaning - UNBROKEN! Treated with the most basic building block of Architecture, the space is built using country brick bonding technique.

The double height reception connects to the above workspaces both visually and aurally. The reception itself is treated with simple rustic material and one gets the first glimpse of exposed concrete ceilings.

The character-building element that is interpreted throughout the spaces in varying forms, scale and composition, is the company logo inspired trellis detail.

Client interaction spaces

The client interaction areas at the Global design studio have been designed for various types of meetings and discussions.

The conference room is styled like a functional space addressing the need for large format design meetings.

The boardroom is designed as a double height formal space with maximum views and day lighting to provide an outdoor like meeting setting. The extensive use of fabric and eclectic collection of artifacts brings warmth to the space.

The lounge has been designed with natural quartz (agate) and wood accents. With the unique hand crafted light box, this space highlights the usage of fabric in innovative and exciting ways.

The touch and feel library is a unique client interaction area that helps envisage projects along with material samples and mood boards.